SBI targets young customers with digital branches

State Bank of India (SBI) has opened six digital branches as part of a campaign to attract young customers who have grown up in the internet and mobile era.

Working with Accenture, the bank has introduced the tech-packed sbiIntouch branches in major cities across India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Ahmedabad.

The sites are equipped with interactive wall and table displays as well as high-definition videoconferencing systems that enable customers to talk to remote experts. Multi-function kiosks provide services such as instant account opening with personalised debit cards, and instant in-principle approvals for home, car and education loans.

SBI chairman Arundhati Bhattacharya says that with more than half of India's massive population under the age of 25, businesses have to adapt their services to meet the expectations of the "digital demographic".

S K Mishra, deputy MD, SBI, adds: "InTouch is the start of SBI's Digital journey. This is our attempt to put our brand in touch with the dreams of the aspirational customer."